UK’s Virus Battle Rages On in Every Home and Community
The fight against coronavirus is raging across the UK, from bustling cities to quiet villages. Every home, every community is on the frontline.
Latest Covid-19 Figures: Cases and Hospitalisations
- 460,437 Covid tests done across Great Britain—21,389 tests took place just yesterday.
- 114,217 people have tested positive, with 5,526 new cases added since yesterday.
- Hospital numbers drop slightly to 17,759 patients, down from 18,711 the day before.
- Tragically, 15,464 people have died after hospitalisation—a heartbreaking rise of 888 fatalities in 24 hours.
These losses hit every family hard.
£1.6bn Boost to Councils on Covid Front Lines
From Whitehall to your local town hall, the government is backing councils with fresh funding to battle the crisis on the ground.
Community Secretary today announced an extra £1.6 billion to support councils tackling COVID-19 pressures. That pushes total funding beyond £3.2 billion.
- Cash helps keep adult social care, children’s services, waste collection and support for vulnerable people running smoothly.
- Business rates payments of £2.6 billion deferred to ease cash flow.
- £850 million in social care grants paid upfront this month.
Councils are delivering vital supplies to shielded individuals, supporting local firms to weather the storm, and helping rough sleepers find safe accommodation.
Shielding the Vulnerable: Food Boxes and Friendly Calls
Over 250,000 government food boxes have been delivered to the most vulnerable so far. Contents include cereal, fruit, tinned goods, tea bags, biscuits, and toiletries.
Next week, 300,000 more boxes will roll out nationwide—an incredible feat just weeks after the scheme began.
The call centre is dialing up to 130,000 shielded people daily to check their needs and arrange priority supermarket deliveries.
Local volunteers and NHS helpers are also calling vulnerable and isolated folks to offer support and a friendly chat.
Heroes Among Us: Captain Tom and Unsung Council Workers
Captain Tom Moore has raised a staggering £23 million for NHS charities, becoming a symbol of hope and community spirit. He will be guest of honour at the new Nightingale hospital opening in Harrogate next week—his home county of Yorkshire.
Councils have also made remarkable strides housing over 90% of rough sleepers in safe spots during the crisis, with ongoing work to help the remaining few.
Local businesses have adapted quickly, with many cafes and restaurants switching to takeaway, delivery, and click-and-collect services to keep the economy ticking.
Public Spaces and Funerals: What You Need to Know
Some councils wrongly closed parks, but the government has ordered all parks to remain open. Fresh air and green spaces are vital, especially for those stuck indoors without gardens. Social distancing must be observed in these public spaces.
The government is also addressing reports of mourners being turned away from funerals. Close family must be allowed to say goodbye following social distancing rules.
Cemeteries and graveyards will stay open—or reopen—to allow private visits and flower-laying, offering solace in difficult times.
Communities United: Small Acts, Big Impact
Local councils are the backbone of our national effort, helping to make lockdown more bearable and humane. Their dedication keeps vital services running and supports vulnerable citizens.
As the Community Secretary put it: “To all the unsung heroes of local councils, thank you for all you are doing for us all.”
